Projects, Hobbies, and ADHD: Why You Never Finish Them

🚦 If you're familiar with the struggle of starting and abandoning projects and hobbies, you're not alone. But have you ever wondered WHY people with ADHD often find themselves overcommitted to multiple projects and hobbies, only to never finish them?
🔍 In this video, we'll explore three reasons why people with ADHD start so many new projects and hobbies, six things that might cause ADHDers to quit most of their passion projects, and five improvement areas we can focus on to get better at finishing what we started.
💬 We'll discuss ADHD symptoms, behaviors, and traits that can lead us to "project hop," including impulsivity, boredom, hyperfocus, perfectionism, and rejection sensitivity - among others.
🧠 Sydni from What in the ADHD? sheds light on the challenges faced by adults with ADHD in terms of task initiation, task switching, and task completion. She explains the science behind the allure of novelty and dopamine in ADHD brains and how they contribute to our perpetual quest for new ideas and passion projects.
🖤 And because What in the ADHD? is committed to ADHD advocacy and education, the video concludes with practical tips you can apply the next time you're considering picking up a new hobby or starting a new project. With the right methods and hacks, you'll be able to finish your next project without abandoning it.
🛠️ Whether you have ADHD or want to understand the experiences of those around you, this video provides valuable insights and actionable tips. Don't let the overwhelm of incomplete projects hold you back.
PLEASE DON'T FORGET TO LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE!
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TOPIC REQUESTS: [e-mail]
Twitter: @WhatTheADHD
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#adhd #projects #hobbies #adhdeducation #mentalhealth

[@mrmarksmeets]

The 24 hour rule on the shopping cart is an awesome idea

[@rootyful]

Work with your ADHD! It can help to not try to focus on one single project - that's just not how our brains work - but try to stick to two or three projects that you can switch between when the first one starts to get boring. Just make sure you actually return to the previous project instead of another one. Also, I do the shopping cart thing too. Less so for projects - since I rarely get into cost-intensive hobbies - but just for other things that my impulsive butt WANTS.

[@samanthab5388]

This is the best video ever! I'm sharing this with my husband and daughter. Maybe they will understand me better.

[@WhatintheADHD]

I appreciate your enthusiasm!!! Makes the hard work worth it. 🥰 (Let me know how the sharing goes!)

[@ChrisM21222]

Just what I needed today, as i have several home improvement projects i am struggling to finish before christmas.

[@WhatintheADHD]

You've got this!!

[@andreicfm]

A round of 🎉 for your comeback. You were one of the first sources of info I came across before my diagnosis.

[@WhatintheADHD]

Thank you! Excited to be back! Also VERY happy for you on getting your diagnosis. It's amazing how much of a difference it makes!

[@tims9434]

I was diagnosed out of the blue. I never thought I had ADHD

[@rockstar6c]

Omg I just discovered your channel and I’m so grateful for it 😭❤️ I always thinking about my abandoned projects but never realised that that’s just my adhd and not my inability to finish sth, now I can work on that better thank you

[@Cocoailustraciones]

Glad you are back!!! 💪👏 I started working out, doing pilates, but as it was getting boring, I switched to calisthenics, as soon as I realized how it pushes you to challenge youself, and it always has a harder level to the skill you are trying to get better at.

[@Lorraineprice-c5p]

Thank you so much. I am trying to understand my son (36). I so wish I knew these things when he was a child. I now understand him so much more to the point I have changed my reaction to how I deal with outcomes. He is delving into learning about himself and being open with those around him, that matter. I am so proud of him. However during this journey I then discovered I feel I am also ADHD to a degree. Not quite the same as my son, however many similarities. In my case it has helped me throughout life as I was always like an energy battery. Never running out of energy and being very successful In my career. Since my retirement things have changed somewhat. I am now experiencing many things my son does. I understand him so much more and myself. Things around us seem so much easier now as I learn about this subject ( still dealing with the guilt of not understanding what he was going through as a child. I can't turn the clock back but I am switched on now) . My last words would be...... be open about it, tell those around you what is going on in your head and the difficult times you are having. You may be surprised how others relate and understand you more. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your input. The whole world is mad except me and thee and even thee are are a little bit mad. So thankful to you. Wish you all well from Australia.

[@vakuraaaah]

I searched “Why can’t I finish my woodworking projects?” and scrolled to this instead of just tapping the first video I saw. My mailbox came down in a storm almost a month ago. I have been working on a new one since then and putting in some serious hours-taking apart, rebuilding, changing the plan-and my excitement and creativity has transformed into terror and shame and self-deprecation, as well as quickly becoming a source of contention in my relationship (and rightly so; we need a damn mailbox out there, and I was adamant when I told him I would do it). But now, having watched your video, I feel this anonymous, genuine phantom shoulder squeeze of acknowledgment and empathetic support…I wouldn’t allow anyone near the project, so I prevented any compassion or constructive input from coming my way. So it took an internet stranger to make it across my rejection and criticism deterring moat. Now, I’m in my makeshift basement woodshop with a steady heart rate and a renewed sense of courage to move forward with a little more kindness and a lot more patience for myself. Thanks, cosmic internet friend. Thanks a heap. ❤

[@julius43461]

Honestly I always thought that woodworking is not a good fit for ADHD, as I had a father and one of my best friends(both ADHD) try to make a career of it and fail. Essentially they would spend 3 months working on a project that should be finished in 2 weeks, making it financially unviable in the long run. I feel like with woodworking perfectionism really gets out of control, as there is lots of things to "perfect". IDK, just my observation.

[@WhatintheADHD]

Aw this made me tear up. 🥲 Thanks so much for sharing and you're so very welcome for the content. I'm sorry you've felt so awful about yourself, but I'm proud of you for getting back to it! But also, just know that it's totally okay if you have to take a break again. ❤️

[@Ninmyst]

Awesome video and SPOT ON with my experience! Thank you so much...

[@hesherette]

yay welcome back!! this was so helpful + informative! ive learned to leave my online shopping carts for a few days as well, it saves me soooo much money!

[@Sassinz]

Wow what a great video!!! Can't imagine the number of hours and effort you put into completing this!!!! Loveeee the illustrations and how you elaborated on the points & sections, it's definitely how I would envision to do it too except for the part I lack the actual skills to put together a video like this so kudos to you!!! XDD

[@jocelynswick-jemison1491]

Definitely needed this today. Thank you!

[@artisanarts2045]

Answered many questions about myself! Thank you!

[@lydianici1696]

love it

[@rodhumphrey445]

This was AWESOME!!! Thank you for the information and the video. So much of this hits home.

[@jacquelineducarmo2875]

Wow, this video is so concisely made. I didn't even have problems paying attention throughout the entire time. Thank u so much for putting this out, I loved all the tips at the third part. 😊❤

[@WhatintheADHD]

This is the BEST compliment anyone could give me! I work really hard to make sure my content is ADHD-friendly ☺️

[@JnAPhotography]

Nicely done. Thank you.

[@Divine_healing]

I love this video,thank you for making it

[@TreasonsBeta]

Thanks for this! I haven't completed a full video project in almost a year so I might take a step back and try these. The shopping cart tip has been my go to for years now, but Cyber Monday and lighting deals on Amazon are my weak point on impulse buying!

[@WhatintheADHD]

Yes! It's so hard to pass up those lightning deals!! 😂

[@WhatintheADHD]

How's the video project coming along?

[@Tairneanach]

Interesting and engaging video, and you have a really nice voice! My current project is quite nerdy in a way that I've been shamed for earlier in my life, so I'm not entirely comfortable sharing it online, but I will be rrying out those strategies.

[@AmandaRussell-g3c]

I started crochet projects intending to make blankets with granny squares, 9 squares in and im done as i realise the project was massive and didnt get enough wool! Ended up putting in a bag for a later date when i get more wool. 18 months later its still in the bag and in my way

[@robertohubbell4266]

Im glad i made it halfway

[@magnuswallin6956]

This is the BEST ADHD video I've seen ( or any information regarding ADHD btw), 100% spot on. Thank you for making this.

[@AmandaRussell-g3c]

Heres me taking notes then zoning out and getting distracted

[@CobwobblersBikes]

I found this really helpful, I've got too many unfinished projects. The SMART idea needs looking at, ad do these tools you list at 9:07 . Hopefully I'll be able to, Finish more videos Build more bikes Write those songs Sew more clothes Repair the house Get a job application finished... Thank you 🙏

[@dgrhm08]

I have unfinished stories & comics that have been unfinished for years. I want to finish them.

[@susmarkvejens]

I love your video. It explains s lot about how my mind works, but I grew up in a time where ADHD really was not quite a thing yet, and only recently I have begun to suspect that I may perhaps actually be one who has it..... I am nearly 60...! And I really stink at keeping my nose in the track. Another thing, which you didn't mentioned, is that often people come up with suggestions as to what needs to be done to e.g. the shed, the garden, the living room, and I, for one, immediately see this as if they had in fact told me that it is my responsibility, and I should get going at once,.... Which they don't! As you said - impulsivity!

[@louiseanne830]

Great video thank you!!!

[@brendalg4]

I just made a comment on one of your other videos... About how I start projects and don't finish them. I had already watched this video but forgot about it. I like that you put the info in text on the screen so I could take a screenshot. It might be good to provide links in the description to certain things. For example, I didn't recognize some of the time management models. Now I need to look up what they are... So it would be good to have a recommended source. It seems my problem is not keeping proper track of what needs to be done, how to prioritize, and having to do too many things that can't be delegated or hired out. I know how to prioritize... But I don't have a process for when a new idea comes in to compare it to the old.. and stop myself from working on it until the old is done. I would be afraid I wouldn't remember what I wanted to do.

[@WhatintheADHD]

Hey Brenda, thanks for the feedback on how I can make things more accessible! I do have a free lexicon available. I just posted the link and more information about it on my community page. :) www.youtube.com/@WhatintheADHD/community

[@RitaCardinal]

Excellent content, form and delivery ! I just been diagnosed and a watched many many videos on the subject. Yours are my favorite. Keep going !

[@WhatintheADHD]

Wait, seriously!? Thank you so much. It means a lot when people say they want to see more! Gives me the push to plan more content. 🥲

[@cseperkepapp4358]

Thank you for not quitting working on this, loved it :)

[@T.Green.]

Omg! The quality and education in these videos are amazing! Wish I discovered you sooner!!

[@Arkivalry]

Currently in the struggle of having mutltipe projects 😅. Trying to prioritize animating though.. hopefully ill get atleast one done 😅

[@WhatintheADHD]

Sooooooooo, how's it going!!?? 👀

[@Arkivalry]

​@@WhatintheADHD😭😭i got distracted with something else and started writing an entire story instead of animatin🤣🤣🤣 😭😭😭😭

[@anstriagreenwood3365]

Great idea - having a shopping cart waiting period - I use this one myself. If I fill the cart late evening I put things like cookies or gransola in it. If I wait til the next morning, I take them off. Same for other goods.

[@rubygilbert4518]

This is the most helpful video I have come across about this topic. Thank you so much 😊

[@taterbug5541]

This was excellent! Hope to see more, but understand if I don’t! 😊

[@WhatintheADHD]

Thank you! What did you like about it? Honestly it's hard to find the motivation to make videos these days because I'll never be as good as other channels that do it so effortlessly. 😭 But knowing that people still come back to my videos and find them helpful is really, really good for me. So thanks ❤️

[@leimaniax]

What’s a great video!! 🏆 Covered such important points, like hyperfocus and rejection sensitivity. Thank you for such an in-depth review. Amazing. ⭐️🙏🏼

[@Psalm23bytheSea]

Brilliant

[@Dr.Orchestrate]

Love that you use dyslexia font!

[@LB-vb2ur]

The way you structured the video is amazing and super adhd friendly I actually paid attention the whole time

[@vakarimasen]

This is a really good video, thank you for finishing it!

[@smurff4]

Just wow....this resonated with me so much and without me realizing that I possibly have ADHD as an adult. Thank you for sharing!

[@dawnc5355]

Awesome!🎉 Thank you for taking the time and effort to share this information. I could have used this information decades ago.

[@mojolojo8605]

When I'm off my meds I have multiple projects and dreams that get placed on hold(all in different stages of completion). When my meds come in, I then hammer them out one by one. I hyper focus multiple things almost like a brains storming diagram. When my meds hit that fog goes away and I can focus on one task at a time

[@RebPaceTN]

Great video!!! I struggle in all these areas. This really helps!!❤

[@elliewoodhouse5149]

Great video! As in the content - from where I sit I can see 3 unfinished hobbies! But also love HOW your video is done. I can't sit and listen to a video for longer than 5mins (no matter the content, bordom...that dopamine you amazingly explain!....kicks in) but the visuals in your video real help. Thanks so much to making your channel!

[@rsfaeges5298]

Props to you Sydni, & thanks for your research and your processing and presentation of it. Worth a couple more views taking USABLE notes. SOOO much I recognized, so much that seemed plausible, & so much that seems worth a try -- iow, I'm enjoying a huge bolus of [dopamine Fizzies]. BTW, are you working on your guide/workbook/toolkit/how to? I'll be waiting!

[@duniasainsasrofi]

Thank you 🥲

[@Ironfrenzy217]

I think the most helpful take aways were waiting and thinking long term/endgame.

[@veronicavanderver7270]

I have several hobbies and felt like you described me. I have projects that have been working on for over a year to complete especially one. But in fairness life has been lifeing

[@melissasibbald4617]

Very helpful! Thanks ☺️👍

[@mariacastillo3090]

Loved your presentation. Thank you. Will you do a budgeting made easier or what your routines are. Thank you.

[@WhatintheADHD]

Can't do a budgeting video because I'm awful at it, but routines I can do!

[@Grupo_SONAR]

Love your videos. Need more 😊

[@janinecombrink2105]

Loved this video ❤ thank you

[@gazsto]

Brilliant and help so much! Thanks

[@bettyrubble2628]

I lovvve how you summarized things at the end such nice organization of the presentation!

[@WhatintheADHD]

Thank you!

[@carolynncoppingerwilliams1520]

So helpful!

[@faye6459]

Great info. thank you x

[@Annalorraine67]

Thank u

[@melissasue3328]

I feel so validated and also educated by your videos

[@WhatintheADHD]

This means a lot to me. Thanks for taking the time to write this!!

[@Psalm23bytheSea]

So agree!!

[@MohamedHmida]

AMAZING VIDEO

[@marcelhannig7989]

🙏🏻❤🙌🏻😁

[@user-dy5me8gi7j]

Can you do a video on how to do research papers while adhd? Lol

[@WhatintheADHD]

Hmm. I could maybe turn this into a broader topic that would still be helpful for you... 🤔

[@aonain09]

isn’t impulsivity the inability to think before taking action? and the tips is to reflect before we make the decision? ffs i’m so lost, wish i could save decisions for later use 😂

[@tims9434]

Which type of ADHD are you referring to in this video? Great to see you back. I watched your video about medication and thought I'd subscribe. I don't like this upload as its not relevant to me. I've never been a perfectionist. I prefer to do things at the last minute as I'm more successful that way. I think you've been misdiagnosed personally. I think you have a different disability. Hope that helps you as I'm unsubscribing. I've edited this to correct typos.

[@twister98]

Not everyone with ADHD are the same and people with ADHD may relate to some traits but not others. No one will have every trait to the same frequency and severity as everyone else with ADHD

[@LambdaO9]

Dude shut up, come on. UGH.

[@waruemi]

as someone officially diagnosed with inattentive-type adhd, this describes my behavior around projects down to the letter. maybe take a moment and realize that our symptoms present in different configurations and intensity based on environmental and biological factors. also this isn’t an airport - there’s no need to announce your departure. hope this helps.

[@TheRonnieaj]

Not everything needs to be relevant to you to be informative to you. My colleague and I both have inattentive ADHD and the manifestations of it are very different. There’s w describe me perfectly, but only half describe him. Different people manifest differently, and knowing and understanding that makes us better and more empathetic people.

[@brendalg4]

I would never tell a creator I didn't like her video because I didn't think it was relevant to me. Especially when that creator specifically said she didn't post for literally years because of perfectionism. Every ADHD video is going to talk about symptoms that you don't personally experience. That does not mean it isn't relevant to you, or that it isn't a good video. You said you aren't a perfectionist. Your comment sure makes you sound like one. It seems you believe the video should only talk about things that apply directly to you. Waiting until the last minute to do something is a symptom of ADHD. You said you do things at the last minute because you do better that way. Maybe you do better because you have ADHD. (or maybe it is a coincidence.) I don't know how you can tell from this video that she has been misdiagnosed. All the symptoms she talks about are ADHD symptoms.